My 2004 Passat had a vibration when I applied the brakes. I brought it into the dealer. I was informed that the rear rotors were warped - but the rear brakes were still good. I was advised to change the brakes and the rotors as they are considered wear items. At 24,000 miles I was a bit surprised. This is a car driven on country roads and meticulously maintained. I instructed the dealer to go ahead. When I got home I consulted my warranty and as I expected, it says nothing about rotors being wear items. I explained this to the dealer but he would not budge. Needing my car I paid the $500.00 + repair and figured I had a good case with VW customer service. After explaining the situation in full I waited 30 days for a response (several interim phone calls). I received my response Friday. The repair would not be covered under warranty citing "outside influence" as to the cause of the premature failure of the rotors. I asked for a specific explanation of what that meant and of course, I didn't get one. There is no way those rotors should warp while the brakes are still good in normal driving. I've written a letter to Dr. Neumann - Pres. of VWOA. This is definitely the last VW product I'll ever purchase. I've had 6 starting with old Air cooled to the NB and Passat. VW Customer service has gone from good, to bad, to ridiculous. Well designed cars, spotty workmanship, poor service. Just figured I'd rant. David
- posted
17 years ago